lie in wait
Hide before pouncing
To lie in wait is to stay hidden while watching for someone, usually with hostile intent: The assassin lay in wait outside the embassy.
The phrase suggests predatory patience—a trap ready to spring.
It extends to non-physical ambush: Problems lie in wait for the unwary investor.
- waylayIntercept to confront
- bideTo linger expectantly
- bide one's timeWait for opportunity
- bushwhackSurprise attack from cover
- lay lowRemained concealed and quiet
prowl · ambush · skulk · lurk · stakeout · pounce · crouch · trap · watch · ensnare · concealment · intercept · prey · predatory · hunt · surveillance · silent · coiled
visibility/openness of approach
lie in waitshow oneself
Become present to others
come forward · emerge · appear · step forward
intentionality/preparation
lie in waitstumble upon
Find unexpectedly
happen upon · chance upon · run into · come across · bump into
lie, wait, waiting, waiter, watchful, await, watcher, awaiting, lying in wait